6 Ups & 3 Downs From Last Night's WWE SmackDown (Nov 28)

by Andy H Murray

1. The Smartest Guys In The Room

Sami Zayn Kevin Owens Randy Orton
WWE.com

Kevin Owens vs. Randy Orton was as good as you'd expect from two performers of their respective abilities. Yes, the stipulation was baloney, and 'The Viper's' tendency to mail it in has spoiled many a bout this year, but their work transcended these complaints. The duo created a surprisingly violent opening sequence that saw Randy batter KO all around ringside, cracking him with kendo sticks and steel steps, before the former Universal Champion fought back, tossing Randy into the barricade.

There was a clear mid-match lull, but things picked up again towards the end. Sami Zayn's interference was inevitable. He cracked Orton with a chair, allowing Owens to drag his opponent back to the ring, fight off a brief comeback, then put him away with a Superkick and Frog Splash.

It's a solid victory for Owens. Him and his partner outfoxed their Commissioner by exploiting his horrendous stipulation for the victory, and a pinfall over 'The Viper' looks great on any wrestler's resumè, regardless of the circumstances. Here's hoping the writers don't immediately undo it by having Orton get his own back with a clean victory next week, much like they've already done with Zayn.

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Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.